Best DUI & DWI Lawyers in Brazil

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:


English
Zendron Advocacia & Assessoria Jurídica, based in Blumenau, Brazil, offers comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas, including civil law, criminal justice, family law, labor relations, estate planning, and social security. The firm is dedicated to providing accessible and...

English
Mariana Ferreira Advogados, founded by Dr. Mariana Ferreira, is a distinguished law firm based in Mauá, São Paulo, Brazil. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across various domains, including Family and Succession Law, Civil Law, Social Security Law, and Criminal Law. With a team of...
Roberto Madeira Advogados Associados
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
R. Madeira Advogados Associados is a law firm regularly registered with the Brazilian Bar Association (RJ), registered with CNPJ no. 34.846.671/0001-90. It was restructured in 2004 in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, and since then, it has sought recognition within the criminal law field and, after...

Founded in 2022
English
Dra. Ivaneide Gomes Advogado Criminal Sao Jose dos Campos 24 Hrs stands out for its dedicated focus on criminal law, providing robust and knowledgeable representation for clients facing criminal charges in Sao Jose dos Campos and surrounding areas. With extensive experience in criminal defense, the...
Mogi das Cruzes, Brazil

English
Vidal Costa Advogados is a distinguished law firm based in Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo, offering comprehensive legal services across civil, criminal, labor, and tax law. The firm provides both consultative and contentious representation in all judicial instances, delivering personalized and...

Founded in 2022
English
Advogado Criminalista - Wilian Leme is a distinguished law firm in Brazil, dedicated exclusively to criminal law. Led by attorney Wilian Leme, who holds a law degree from Universidade Nove de Julho (Uninove) and a postgraduate specialization in Criminal Procedure Law from Instituto Damásio de...
Mogi das Cruzes, Brazil

English
D️r. Matheus Salles | Advogado is recognized in Brazil for its comprehensive expertise across diverse legal disciplines, including civil law, criminal justice, divorce, environmental matters, and real estate transactions. The firm combines a deep understanding of Brazilian legal frameworks with...

Founded in 2015
English
Gustavo Cabral Advocacia & Consultoria Jurídica, established in 2015, specializes in defending fundamental rights and guarantees with a firm, strategic, and deeply knowledgeable approach. The firm is committed to legality, ethics, and respect for human dignity, ensuring each case is handled with...
CARLA RODRIGUES
São José dos Campos, Brazil

English
Carla Rodrigues Advocacia e Consultoria is a distinguished Brazilian law firm specializing in business law, with a particular focus on tax law, privacy, data protection, and contracts. The firm is committed to assisting clients in achieving compliance with tax legislation and the General Data...
Urbanek Advocacia Criminal
Balneário Camboriú, Brazil

2 people in their team
English
Urbanek Advocacia Criminal is a specialist criminal defense firm based in Balneário Camboriú, Santa Catarina, Brazil, offering high-complexity representation in federal and state matters. The practice emphasizes urgent intervention for clients facing detention or serious investigation, providing...
AS SEEN ON

About DUI & DWI Law in Brazil

Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are serious offenses in Brazil. The country has strict laws to combat these issues, given the high number of road accidents related to alcohol consumption. Brazil's DUI laws are outlined under the "Lei Seca" or "Dry Law," which prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to these laws, drivers are considered legally intoxicated if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.05% or higher.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations where a person accused of DUI or DWI in Brazil may require legal assistance:

  • First Offense: Even if it's your first offense, understanding the legal process and potential consequences with the help of a lawyer can make a significant difference.
  • High BAC Levels: Higher alcohol concentrations could lead to increased penalties, requiring expertise to negotiate outcomes.
  • Accidents: If the DUI/DWI incident involved an accident, particularly with injuries or fatalities, legal representation becomes crucial.
  • License Suspension: Legal help can be vital in cases where you face the suspension of your driving license.
  • Disputing Charges: Having a lawyer could help if there are grounds to contest the charges based on improper testing or procedural errors by law enforcement.

Local Laws Overview

In Brazil, the "Lei Seca" sets stringent measures to deter drunk driving. Some key aspects of the local laws include:

  • Zero Tolerance for Professional Drivers: For professional drivers, any detectable level of alcohol can lead to an infraction.
  • Administrative and Criminal Penalties: Penalties include fines, license suspension, and potential imprisonment.
  • Testing Methods: Police may use breathalyzers, blood, or urine tests. Refusal to undergo testing can result in penalties similar to those for high BAC levels.
  • Increased Enforcement: Random checkpoints are common, and penalties have increased in recent years to endorse stricter compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Brazil?

The legal BAC limit is 0.05% for ordinary drivers and 0.0% for professional drivers.

What are the penalties for DUI/DWI in Brazil?

Penalties may include fines, license suspension (up to a year), vehicle impoundment, and imprisonment, especially if associated with accidents.

Can I refuse a breathalyzer test?

Refusal to take a breathalyzer test can result in penalties similar to those for a confirmed DUI, including fines and license suspension.

How do police enforce DUI laws in Brazil?

Police commonly set up random checkpoints (blitzes) to conduct sobriety tests and enforce regulations.

Can a DUI charge affect my criminal record?

Yes, a DUI charge in Brazil is a criminal offense and can appear on your criminal record if convicted.

What if I am a foreign national charged with DUI in Brazil?

Foreign nationals may face the same legal procedures and penalties. It's advisable to seek legal counsel familiar with both Brazilian and international laws.

How can a lawyer help me in a DUI case?

A lawyer can challenge evidence, negotiate plea deals, reduce penalties, and ensure fair treatment under the law.

What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest?

Contact a lawyer as soon as possible, and refrain from making statements without legal representation.

Are testing results always accurate?

Errors can occur with testing equipment or procedures. An attorney can challenge the accuracy of test results in court.

What can increase DUI penalties?

Factors such as high BAC levels, previous offenses, and involvement in accidents can increase penalties.

Additional Resources

Several resources can aid those seeking legal advice or further information on DUI/DWI cases in Brazil:

  • Departamento Nacional de Trânsito (Denatran): Provides comprehensive guidelines on traffic laws and regulations.
  • Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil (OAB): Offers legal support and resources for finding qualified attorneys.
  • Local Judicial Branches: Access local court information for guidance on DUI proceedings.

Next Steps

If you find yourself in a DUI/DWI situation in Brazil, the following steps can guide your path forward:

  • Contact a specialized DUI lawyer who understands Brazilian law to assess your case.
  • Gather all relevant documents and evidence such as test results, police reports, and witness statements.
  • Follow all legal recommendations and procedures as advised by your lawyer.
  • Attend all court appointments and legal meetings as scheduled.
  • Consider non-legal support options, such as counseling or rehabilitation programs if necessary.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Brazil through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including DUI & DWI, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Brazil — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.